Podcast appearances and mentions of Ken Tucker

Kind is the announcer and host sidekick on the Netflix show Everybody's Live with John Mulaney. "I don't know what the hell I'm doing. You must understand — it's anarchy," he says of the show. He spoke with Terry Gross about having ego but no confidence, working with Sondheim, and working in his father's jewelry store as a teen. Ken Tucker reviews Kendrick Lamar and SZA's single "Luther."Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Amanda Knox was convicted — and ultimately exonerated — for the murder of her roommate Meredith Kercher while studying abroad in Italy. Now in a new memoir, Knox explains why getting out of prison was not the end of her saga. Also, we hear from British actor Stephen Graham. He stars in the Netflix miniseries Adolescence as the father of a 13-year-old boy arrested for murdering a girl from his school. He also co-created the series and talks about the ambitious style in which it was shot — in one long take. Ken Tucker reviews new albums by Lucy Dacus and Jeffrey Lewis.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Amanda Knox was convicted — and ultimately exonerated — for the murder of her roommate Meredith Kercher while studying abroad in Italy. Now in a new memoir, Knox explains why getting out of prison was not the end of her saga. Also, we hear from British actor Stephen Graham. He stars in the Netflix miniseries Adolescence as the father of a 13-year-old boy arrested for murdering a girl from his school. He also co-created the series and talks about the ambitious style in which it was shot — in one long take. Ken Tucker reviews new albums by Lucy Dacus and Jeffrey Lewis.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As a longtime staff writer at The New Yorker, Hilton Als's essays and profiles of figures like Toni Morrison, Joan Didion, and Richard Pryor have redefined cultural criticism, blending autobiography with literary and social commentary. Als is also a curator. His latest gallery exhibition is The Writing's on the Wall: Language and Silence in the Visual Arts, at the Hill Art Foundation in New York. The exhibit brings together the works of 32 artists across a range of media to examine how artists embrace silence. The show asked a powerful question: What do words — and their absence — look like? The Pulitzer Prize-winning writer spoke with Tonya Mosley. Also, Ken Tucker reviews new music from Lucy Dacus and Jeffrey Lewis.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

As a longtime staff writer at The New Yorker, Hilton Als's essays and profiles of figures like Toni Morrison, Joan Didion, and Richard Pryor have redefined cultural criticism, blending autobiography with literary and social commentary. Als is also a curator. His latest gallery exhibition is The Writing's on the Wall: Language and Silence in the Visual Arts, at the Hill Art Foundation in New York. The exhibit brings together the works of 32 artists across a range of media to examine how artists embrace silence. The show asked a powerful question: What do words — and their absence — look like? The Pulitzer Prize-winning writer spoke with Tonya Mosley. Also, Ken Tucker reviews new music from Lucy Dacus and Jeffrey Lewis.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Seth Rogen created a new AppleTV+ series, The Studio, which is a satirical look at how executives in Hollywood make decisions on what movies get made. He stars as the head of a fictional Hollywood studio who is trying to save the struggling company. Also, New Yorker staff writer Andrew Marantz talks about how Right-wing podcasts and YouTube channels have become the platforms where men who feel disillusioned and alienated go to feel seen and heard—and the battle on the Left to win them back. Plus, rock critic Ken Tucker reviews new songs by Teddy Swims, Benjamin Booker, and Neil Young.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Seth Rogen created a new AppleTV+ series, The Studio, which is a satirical look at how executives in Hollywood make decisions on what movies get made. He stars as the head of a fictional Hollywood studio who is trying to save the struggling company. Also, New Yorker staff writer Andrew Marantz talks about how Right-wing podcasts and YouTube channels have become the platforms where men who feel disillusioned and alienated go to feel seen and heard—and the battle on the Left to win them back. Plus, rock critic Ken Tucker reviews new songs by Teddy Swims, Benjamin Booker, and Neil Young.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Popular podcasts in the "manosphere" helped sway young men to go MAGA in the 2024 election. New Yorker writer Andrew Marantz explains how Democrats can win them back.Also, Ken Tucker shares songs by Neil Young, Benjamin Booker and Teddy Swims.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Popular podcasts in the "manosphere" helped sway young men to go MAGA in the 2024 election. New Yorker writer Andrew Marantz explains how Democrats can win them back.Also, Ken Tucker shares songs by Neil Young, Benjamin Booker and Teddy Swims.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

How To Make Powerful Marketing Easy For Small Businesses In this episode of the Marketing Guides for Small Businesses podcast, join your hosts Ian Cantle, Ken Tucker, and Paul Barthel as they delve into valuable strategies to simplify marketing for small business owners. Marketing can often feel overwhelming and time-consuming, but our experts break down practical approaches to help you tackle these challenges efficiently. Whether you're just starting out, looking to streamline your efforts, or aiming to maximize your ROI, this episode is packed with actionable insights to make your marketing journey smoother and more effective. Episode Highlights: Understand why marketing feels daunting for many small business owners.Discover the importance of differentiating between tactics and strategies in marketing.Learn how automation and AI tools can reduce the time and effort required to manage marketing tasks.Explore the role of a marketing partner in bringing cohesive, effective campaigns together.Find out the importance of robust systems and processes in simplifying marketing.Gain insights into meaningful metric reporting and how to measure marketing effectiveness.Understand the impact of AI on marketing and why it's essential to stay ahead. Key Takeaways: Why a clear marketing strategy is crucial for small businesses.The pitfalls of a tactic-driven approach and benefits of a holistic strategy.How AI tools can assist but not replace strategic marketing decisions.Ways to measure marketing success that truly matter.The importance of having a trusted marketing partner for cohesive campaigns.Steps to streamline your marketing efforts and maximize your ROI. Ready to take control of your marketing and drive real results? Let's make it easy for you!

Questlove's documentary, Ladies & Gentlemen... 50 Years of SNL Music, airs tonight on NBC. It highlights some of the show's most iconic musical performances and comedy sketches — from break-out stars to lip-syncing controversy. Our TV critic David Bianculli reflects on the documentary, and then Questlove joins Terry Gross to talk about some of the highlights. Also, Ken Tucker reviews Ringo Starr's new country album, Look Up.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Questlove's documentary, Ladies & Gentlemen... 50 Years of SNL Music, airs tonight on NBC. It highlights some of the show's most iconic musical performances and comedy sketches — from break-out stars to lip-syncing controversy. Our TV critic David Bianculli reflects on the documentary, and then Questlove joins Terry Gross to talk about some of the highlights. Also, Ken Tucker reviews Ringo Starr's new country album, Look Up.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

When Ronny Chieng got a job as a correspondent and then anchor at The Daily Show, he kept the news to himself. "I didn't want to brag," the Malaysia-born comic says. "I just wanted to do the work." Chieng now costars in the series Interior Chinatown, and has a new Netflix comedy special, Love to Hate It.Also, Ken Tucker reflects on the best pop music of 2024.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

When Ronny Chieng got a job as a correspondent and then anchor at The Daily Show, he kept the news to himself. "I didn't want to brag," the Malaysia-born comic says. "I just wanted to do the work." Chieng now costars in the series Interior Chinatown, and has a new Netflix comedy special, Love to Hate It.Also, Ken Tucker reflects on the best pop music of 2024.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Building Connections That Count: A Guide to Effective Business Networking In Episode 213 of the Marketing Guides for Small Businesses Podcast, we dive into one of the most valuable tools for small and medium-sized businesses—networking. Business networking is far more than handing out business cards; it's about cultivating meaningful relationships that can transform your business. Whether you're an introvert easing into networking or a seasoned pro looking to refine your approach, this episode is packed with actionable strategies to help you make every connection count. Our panel of marketing experts, Jeff Steck, Ian Cantle, Ken Tucker, and Paul Barthel, guide you through setting clear networking goals, making memorable impressions, and mastering purposeful follow-ups. What You'll Learn in This Episode • Why networking is crucial for business growth and unique benefits it offers. • How to find the right networking events for your industry and goals. • The importance of preparation before attending a networking event. • How to build genuine connections rather than engaging in “drive-by carding.” • Tips for leveraging online and hybrid networking platforms. • Strategies to follow up effectively after events to strengthen connections. • The value of consistency in networking and why showing up regularly matters. • How to create your own networking opportunities to meet your specific needs. • The role of storytelling and humor in making lasting impressions. • How to balance networking time with other business priorities. If you're ready to unlock the power of business networking and build connections that truly count, tune in to this episode now! Want to take your networking and marketing efforts to the next level? Reach out to our marketing guides: • ChangeScape Web • Tylerica Marketing Systems • Dental Marketing Heroes • Outsourced Marketing Inc. Your next big opportunity could be just one connection away—don't miss it!

The British actor and singer played abolitionist Harriet Tubman in Harriet, and Aretha Franklin in Genius: Aretha. Now she's defying gravity as Elphaba in Wicked. She spoke with Terry Gross in 2021 about some of her roles and her vocal training. Also, Ken Tucker shares his picks for great Christmas music, and David Bianculli reviews the Amazon Prime series The Sticky.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The British actor and singer played abolitionist Harriet Tubman in Harriet, and Aretha Franklin in Genius: Aretha. Now she's defying gravity as Elphaba in Wicked. She spoke with Terry Gross in 2021 about some of her roles and her vocal training. Also, Ken Tucker shares his picks for great Christmas music, and David Bianculli reviews the Amazon Prime series The Sticky.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The British actor and singer played abolitionist Harriet Tubman in Harriet, and Aretha Franklin in Genius: Aretha. Now she's defying gravity as Elphaba in Wicked. She spoke with Terry Gross in 2021 about some of her roles and her vocal training. Also, Ken Tucker shares his picks for great Christmas music, and David Bianculli reviews the Amazon Prime series The Sticky.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The British actor and singer played abolitionist Harriet Tubman in Harriet, and Aretha Franklin in Genius: Aretha. Now she's defying gravity as Elphaba in Wicked. She spoke with Terry Gross in 2021 about some of her roles and her vocal training. Also, Ken Tucker shares his picks for great Christmas music, and David Bianculli reviews the Amazon Prime series The Sticky.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The actor-singer-entrepreneur stars in Emilia Pérez, the new Spanish-language musical about a cartel boss who undergoes gender-affirming surgery. Gomez talks with Tonya Mosley about re-learning Spanish, her Disney years, and working alongside comedy legends Martin Short and Steve Martin in Only Murders in the Building. Also, Ken Tucker shares three great country songs: Maren Morris' "People Still Show Up," Dwight Yoakam's "A Dream That Never Ends," and Shawna Thompson's "Lean On Neon."Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The actor-singer-entrepreneur stars in Emilia Pérez, the new Spanish-language musical about a cartel boss who undergoes gender-affirming surgery. Gomez talks with Tonya Mosley about re-learning Spanish, her Disney years, and working alongside comedy legends Martin Short and Steve Martin in Only Murders in the Building. Also, Ken Tucker shares three great country songs: Maren Morris' "People Still Show Up," Dwight Yoakam's "A Dream That Never Ends," and Shawna Thompson's "Lean On Neon."Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The HBO series Somebody Somewhere is about a 40-something woman who returns home to Kansas to care for her dying sister, then stays, but feels like an outsider until she finds a place in the LGBTQ community. We talk Bridget Everett, star of the series, who is also an acclaimed (and bawdy) cabaret singer. Also, writer Nick Harkaway talks about his novel Karla's Choice. It's a new story about George Smiley, the British spymaster made famous in the books written by Harkaway's late father, John le Carré. Ken Tucker reviews a new biography of Randy Newman.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The witty, cynical and often tongue-in-cheek songwriter Randy Newman is the subject of a new biography. He also wrote a bunch of film scores, including the music for Toy Story, Ragtime, A Bug's Life, and Monsters, Inc. We're revisiting Newman's interview with Terry Gross from 1998 and Ken Tucker reviews the book, A Few Words in Defense of Our Country.Justin Chang reviews the new Vatican thriller Conclave.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Ta-Nehisi Coates talks about his trip to Senegal and reflects on his ancestors taken from that side of the ocean and sent to their enslavement in America. Coates is best known for his Atlantic magazine cover story "The Case for Reparations" and for his book Between the World and Me, which he wrote as a letter to his son about what he'll face as a Black man.We'll also hear from actor, comedian, and activist John Leguizamo. His latest project is a docuseries on PBS about the history of Latinos in the Americas, covering thousands of years, from pre-Columbian Inca, Maya, and Aztec civilizations to the fight for Latino civil rights.Plus, Ken Tucker reviews Bob Dylan's new collection, The 1974 Live Recordings.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The host of the Food Network's Barefoot Contessa tells Tonya Mosley about a disastrous party she threw when she was 21. Garten invited 20 guests, with the intention of making an individual omelet for each person — except she barely knew how to cook an omelet. Her new memoir is Be Ready When Fate Happens.Ken Tucker reviews The 1974 Live Recordings, a newly released recording of some of Bob Dylan's most raucous rock and roll.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Episode 204 - Is your business a commodity Marketing Strategies to avoid being commoditized In this episode of the Marketing Guides for Small Businesses Podcast, we tackle the pressing issue of commoditization that many service-based businesses face. Hosts Ian Cantle, Ken Tucker, and Paul Barthel delve into why businesses struggle with becoming commoditized and how they can stand out in a crowded, competitive market. The episode offers actionable steps and strategies for differentiation, customer feedback, and leveraging technology to enhance your unique value proposition and secure lasting customer relationships. Key Learnings: Identifying Commoditization: Learn the early warning signs of commoditization such as price wars, customer churn, and lack of differentiation, and how these signs can impact your business.Importance of Differentiation: Discover why setting your business apart from competitors is crucial and how it prevents the risks associated with being viewed as a commodity.Practical Strategies for Differentiation: Explore actionable strategies to differentiate your service-based business, including productization, systematization, and understanding your ideal customer.Leveraging Technology: Gain insights on the key technologies, like CRM systems and analytics tools, that can help your business streamline operations, respond faster, and deliver an enhanced customer experience.Customer Feedback: Understand the role of customer feedback in identifying areas of improvement and discovering what your business does well, helping you to refine your services and increase customer loyalty. TAKE ACTION TODAY: If you found value in this episode, we encourage you to subscribe to the Marketing Guides for Small Businesses Podcast. Rate and review us on your favorite podcast platform to help us reach more listeners like you. Also, visit our website at https://marketingguidesforsmallbusinesses.com/ for free resources, more episodes, and links to set up free consultation calls with any of the hosts. Share our podcast with your colleagues, friends, and family. Keep calm and market on! GET IN TOUCH WITH THE MARKETING GUIDES: Ian Cantle of Dental Marketing Heroes and Outsourced Marketing Jeff Stec of Tylerica Marketing Systems Ken Tucker & Paul Barther of Changescape Web Solutions

What Gives Us Joy In Marketing  Overview In this insightful episode of the Marketing Guides for Small Businesses podcast, hosts Ken Tucker, Paul Barthel, Ian Cantle, and Jeff Stec take a deep dive into what brings them joy and satisfaction in their marketing careers. They discuss what fuels their passion for marketing, from the thrill of problem-solving to the satisfaction of seeing their clients succeed. The hosts also share their insights on the various tools and tactics they favor, as well as what challenges and frustrates them in the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing. Key Learnings Ken Tucker's View: Passion for Constant Learning: Ken talks about his endless love for learning about new marketing tools and features. He admits to having "shiny object syndrome" but finds joy when discovering new features that can add value.Building Solutions: He expresses his love for building websites and creating pages, which serve as immediate, tangible outcomes of his efforts. Ian Cantle's Perspective: High ROI from SEO: Ian shares his excitement for SEO and how seeing the results positively affect a client's bottom line is the highest form of success for him.Orchestration and Holistic Marketing: He emphasizes the importance of a strategic, orchestrated approach to marketing that integrates various tactics seamlessly. Jeff Stec's Joy in Automation and Problem-Solving: Love for Engineering and Building Things: Jeff compares his experience as an engineer to his current role, where he enjoys problem-solving and creating marketing systems.Education and Client Empowerment: Jeff likes educating clients and demystifying the marketing processes, making them more involved. Paul Barthel's Passion: Automation and AI Bots: Paul shares his enthusiasm for building marketing automation systems and AI bots. He finds immense satisfaction in learning how these technologies work and solving the problems they present.Deep Technical Knowledge: He enjoys diving into the nuances of SEO tools and getting hands-on to solve technical challenges. Challenges in Marketing: Client Expectations: The hosts discuss the difficulties of managing client expectations, particularly when clients want quick results or shiny new tactics without understanding the strategic foundation required for long-term success.Outdated or Bad Information: Ian and Jeff talk about the frustrations of battling against outdated or incorrect information that clients bring from networking events or other sources.Multi-Vendor Approaches: Ian highlights the issues with having multiple vendors who don't coordinate well, making it hard for clients to achieve a cohesive strategy.Technical Challenges: Jeff and Paul touch on the time-consuming and often frustrating task of keeping up with ever-changing software platforms and the lack of proper documentation. HOW TO GET STARTED TODAY! Thank you for tuning into this episode of the Marketing Guides for Small Businesses podcast! If you found value in this discussion, please like, share, and subscribe to our podcast. Do you have marketing challenges that you'd like us to tackle? Or do you need tailored advice on how to elevate your business's marketing strategy? Visit https://marketingguidesforsmallbusinesses.com/ to set up a free consultation call with any of our expert hosts, and let's take your business growth to the next level. Don't forget to rate and review us wherever you get your podcasts, so we can continue to bring you the content that helps you and your business thrive. Keep calm and market on! GET IN TOUCH WITH THE MARKETING GUIDES: Ian Cantle of Dental Marketing Heroes and Outsourced Marketing Jeff Stec of Tylerica Marketing Systems Ken Tucker & Paul Barther of Changescape Web Solutions

Budgeting For Marketing In this episode of the Marketing Guides for Small Businesses podcast, hosts Jeff Stec, Ian Cantle, Ken Tucker, and Paul Barthel tackle one of the most challenging and essential topics for small business owners: budgeting for marketing. This episode is packed with valuable insights, practical advice, and real-world examples to help you effectively allocate your marketing budget and drive your business's growth. Overview: Join the marketing experts as they delve into the intricacies of setting a marketing budget, the pitfalls to avoid, and how to maximize your return on investment (ROI). Whether you're a startup entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode will provide a comprehensive guide to make informed decisions about your marketing spend. Key Learnings: Challenges of Budgeting for Marketing: Understand why budgeting for marketing is often a daunting task and the common mistakes businesses make.Planning and Research: Learn the importance of planning and strategic research in forming an effective marketing budget.Key Components of a Marketing Budget: Discover the essential elements that should be included in your marketing budget, from advertising costs to content creation.Realistic Expectations: Jeff discusses the “if I build it, they will come” myth and why effective marketing is crucial for business success.In-house vs Outsourcing: Explore the pros and cons of handling marketing internally versus hiring an external agency.The Value of Strategy: Find out how a well-defined marketing strategy can significantly impact your budgeting decisions and overall success.Return on Investment (ROI): Ian and the panel discuss what ROI you can realistically expect from your marketing efforts.Effective Use of Resources: Gain insights into prioritizing marketing channels and making the most of limited resources.Parting Thoughts and Closing Remarks: Key takeaways to help you avoid common budgeting pitfalls and make strategic marketing investments. GET STARTED TODAY: Don't miss out on transforming your marketing approach! Join us for this informative episode and gain the tools you need to set a winning marketing budget. Subscribe to the Marketing Guides for Small Businesses podcast on your favorite platform and stay updated with our latest episodes. For more insights and free resources, visit https://marketingguidesforsmallbusinesses.com/ If you have specific questions or need personalized advice, feel free to set up a free consultation call with any of our hosts. Tune in, get informed, and let's take your business to the next level! Until next week, keep calm and market on. GET IN TOUCH WITH THE MARKETING GUIDES: Ian Cantle of Dental Marketing Heroes and Outsourced Marketing Jeff Stec of Tylerica Marketing Systems Ken Tucker & Paul Barther of Changescape Web Solutions

Special Guest - Unlocking Local SEO Success with Manick Bhan of Search Atlas In this episode of the Marketing Guides for Small Businesses podcast, our hosts Ken Tucker, Paul Worthel, and Ian Cantle are joined by Manick Bhan, the founder and CTO of Search Atlas, for an in-depth discussion about local SEO. Manick shares his extensive knowledge and unique insights into optimizing local businesses' online presence. From foundational SEO strategies to advanced automation techniques, Manick discusses how to effectively boost local rankings, the role of holistic SEO, and leveraging AI for improved results. Key Learnings: 1. Holistic SEO Approach: Manick emphasizes the importance of a holistic SEO approach, involving user experience, authority, content, and technical aspects.He introduces the "Exact Holistic SEO Framework," which combines these elements for comprehensive optimization. 2. Local SEO Strategies: Manick shares actionable strategies to improve local rankings, such as optimizing Google Business Profiles and focusing on local content.He highlights the significance of backlinks, Google My Business posts, and understanding the unique ranking signals for different types of businesses. 3. Common Misconceptions: Manick debunks common misconceptions about local SEO, such as the overemphasis on citations and reviews.stresses the importance of focusing on the overall SEO strategy rather than just individual elements. 4. Case Studies and Experiments: Real-world case studies demonstrate the effectiveness of holistic and automated SEO practices.Manick explains the methodologies behind these case studies and how businesses can replicate their success. 5. Automation and AI in SEO: The discussion covers the role of AI in SEO, distinguishing between productive uses of AI for efficiency versus the dangerous “set it and forget it” mentality.Manick talks about the future of SEO with innovations in dynamic and automated SEO solutions, emphasizing the need for skilled human oversight. GET STARTED TODAY! If you're a small business owner looking to optimize your local SEO, or an SEO professional eager to stay ahead of the curve, this episode is a must-listen. Apply the insights and strategies shared by Manick Bhan to give your business a competitive edge. For more detailed guides, tips, and resources, visit our website at https://marketingguidesforsmallbusinesses.com/ . Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast on your favorite platform and rate and review us to help others find this valuable content. Connect with our hosts: Ken Tucker & Paul Barthel - Changescape WebIan Cantle - Dental Marketing HeroesManick Bhan - Search Atlas Have questions or topics you'd like us to cover? Reach out to us on social media or through our website. Let's continue the conversation and help each other grow! Until next week, keep calm and market on!

As 50,000 people attend the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, we look at the history of politics, protest and play in American stadiums. "We fight our political battles in stadiums," Columbia historian Frank Andre Guridy says. "They become ideal places to stake your claims on what you want the United States to be." His new book is The Stadium.Also, as part of his series celebrating albums turning 50 this year, Ken Tucker revisits Neil Young's On the Beach.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Comic Nikki Glaser talks with Terry Gross about finding the line between offensive and funny, hurt feelings, and why she started making jokes about sex. Her new Emmy-nominated stand-up special on HBO is Someday You'll Die.Ken Tucker reflects on the New York Dolls' album Too Much Too Soon for its 50th anniversary. Paul W. Downs co-created the acclaimed HBO Max show Hacks with his wife, Lucia Aniello and their friend and collaborator, Jen Statsky. Downs talks with Ann Marie Baldonado about how they came up with the idea for Hacks, and how his wife continued directing the show while she was in labor. Hacks is nominated for 16 Emmy Awards this year.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

In 1982, eight science fiction films were released within eight weeks of each other: E.T., Tron, Star Trek II: Wrath of Khan, Conan the Barbarian, Blade Runner, Poltergeist, The Thing, and Mad Max: The Road Warrior. Entertainment writer Chris Nashawaty talks to Tonya Mosley about how those movies shaped the genre and the movie industry. His book is The Future Was Now. Also, Ken Tucker reflects on the New York Dolls' album Too Much Too Soon for its 50th anniversary.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Jon M. Chu, the director of Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights is now directing the film adaptation of the broadway musical Wicked. We'll talk about making movies, and being raised by immigrant parents who owned a Chinese restaurant in Silicon Valley.Also, we hear from stunt performer-turned-director David Leitch. He directed the film The Fall Guy, starring Ryan Gosling as a stuntman. Ken Tucker continues his series of great albums turning 50 this year with an album by Roxy Music.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Filmmaker and stunt coordinator David Leitch says it's easier to do stunts himself than direct his stunt performer friends. "You are responsible for their safety," he explains. "Your heart goes through your chest." His film The Fall Guy is about the unknown performers who put their lives on the line. He talks with Terry Gross about barrel rolling cars, being lit on fire, and doing another take when everything hurts. Also, Ken Tucker marks the 50th anniversary of Roxy Music's Country Life.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Humorist/writer Shalom Auslander's new memoir is a satirical look at all the ways a sense of "feh," which is Yiddish for "yuck," has made its way into his psyche and every aspect of his life. Auslander has written extensively over the years about growing up in a dysfunctional ultra-Orthodox Jewish family. His new memoir, aptly titled Feh, is about a journey to write a different story for himself.We'll also hear from Julianne Nicholson. Proud to call herself a character actor, she's appeared in dozens of films and TV series, from Ally McBeal and Boardwalk Empire to August: Osage County and Mare of Easttown, where she earned an Emmy. Nicholson is starring in the new film Janet Planet.And, Ken Tucker takes us back 50 years to Stevie Wonder's album Fulfillingness' First Finale, which he says is an underrated treasure.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

We talk about the weapon the shooter used in the attempted assassination of former President Trump. Pulitzer Prize-winning Washington Post reporter Todd Frankel explains how the AR-15 became an icon of gun culture and a favored weapon for mass shooters. Also, Ken Tucker revisits Stevie Wonder's album Fulfillingness' First Finale for its 50th anniversary.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Comedian Michelle Buteau stars in the new comedy Babes, which follows best friends as they take different paths toward motherhood. It was a role Buteau had to be talked into doing by her real life friend and co-star Ilana Glazer because, at the time, she was already in the thick of living out her character's life as the mother of twin babies. Also, we'll talk with New Yorker staff writer Emily Nussbaum about working conditions for cast members on the popular reality TV show Love is Blind. And Ken Tucker Rock critic Ken Tucker revisits Steely Dan's 1974 album Pretzel Logic, on its 50th anniversary.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

New York Times political correspondent Shane Goldmacher has been following the flood of campaign finance money for both presidential candidates. Trump is now ahead of President Biden, backed by wealthy independent donors, many of whom gave millions after he was convicted of felony charges. Also, we discuss how Trump and Biden have prepared for their first debate Thursday night, and how this debate will be different. Also, Ken Tucker revisits Steely Dan's 1974 album Pretzel Logic, on its 50th anniversary.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Buteau says covering the news of the 2001 terrorist attacks crystalized her desire to go into comedy. She spoke with Tonya Mosley about her journey to the stage, needing humor in dark times, and proving her college professor wrong. She stars in the film Babes and in the Netflix series Survival of the Thickest.Also, Ken Tucker shares three summer songs he's had on repeat.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Whitehead's sequel to Harlem Shuffle centers on crime at every level, from small-time crooks to Harlem's elite. "My early '70s New York is dingy and grimy," the Pulitzer Prize-winning author says. Plus, Ken Tucker reviews Swamp Dogg's new album, Blackgrass.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The SNL alum co-stars with Carol Burnett in Palm Royale, an Apple TV+ series about a former pageant queen who wants to break into high society. Wiig talked with Ann Marie Baldonado about working with Burnett, the rush of SNL, and co-writing the mega hit movie Bridesmaids. Ken Tucker shares three songs of the summer.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Journalist Susan Page talks about Barbara Walters's groundbreaking career as a newswoman and her signature interview specials, which blended news and entertainment. Page was interested in understanding Walters' inner life – the source of her drive, how she navigated hostile work environments, and being teased for her speech impediment. Page's book is The Rulebreaker.Also, rock critic Ken Tucker reviews Taylor Swift's 11th studio album, The Tortured Poets Department.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Writer Salman Rushdie talks about the knife attack that nearly killed him — and his life since then. In 2022, he was onstage at a literary event when the assailant ran up from the audience, and stabbed him 14 times. His new book is called Knife. Also, Diarra Kilpatrick talks about writing and starring in the new series, Diarra From Detroit, a dark comedy about a public school teacher who is ghosted by a Tinder date and, in her quest to find out why, investigates a decades-old mystery that takes her into the underbelly of Detroit. Ken Tucker reviews Tierra Whack's new album World Wide Whack.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

NCAA/WNBA star Sue Bird spoke with Terry Gross about her career, coming out publicly, and fighting for equity in women's sports. A new documentary about her last season on the court is Sue Bird: In the Clutch.Also, we hear from Carrie Brownstein and Corin Tucker, co-founders of the punk band Sleater-Kinney. While they were working on their latest album, Little Rope, Brownstein's mother died in an car accident. They'll talk about how the grief affected the album.Also, Ken Tucker reviews Beyonce's new album, Cowboy Carter.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

"A lot of things started going wrong from the very beginning," historian Hampton Sides says of Cook's last voyage, which ended in the British explorer's violent death on the island of Hawaii in 1779. His book is The Wide Wide Sea: Imperial Ambition, First Contact, and the Fateful Final Voyage of Captain James Cook.Ken Tucker reviews Beyoncé's album Cowboy Carter.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

ProPublica reporter Abrahm Lustgarten says in the coming decades it's likely tens of millions of us will relocate to escape rising seas, punishing heat, floods and wildfires due to global warming. He says nine of the ten fastest growing regions of the country are on the front lines of the most severe and fast-changing climate conditions. His book is On the Move: The Overheating Earth and the Uprooting of America.Ken Tucker has high praise for Tierra Whack's new album, World Wide Whack. For sponsor-free episodes of Fresh Air — and exclusive weekly bonus episodes, too — subscribe to Fresh Air+ via Apple Podcasts or at https://plus.npr.org/freshairLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Denis Villeneuve remembers watching the 1984 movie version of Frank Herbert's 1965 sci-fi novel Dune and thinking, "Someday, someone else will do it again" — not realizing he would be that filmmaker. He spoke to Sam Briger about shooting Dune in the desert and his love of silent film.Ken Tucker reviews a new solo album from guitarist Mary Timony. Neuroscientist Dr. Charan Ranganath's book is Why We Remember. We talk about how stress affects memory and what's happening in the brain when something's on the tip of your tongue.For sponsor-free episodes of Fresh Air — and exclusive weekly bonus episodes, too — subscribe to Fresh Air+ via Apple Podcasts or at https://plus.npr.org/freshairLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Busy Philipps plays Mrs. George, a "cool mom" seeking the approval of her teen daughter in the new movie musical version of Mean Girls. Philipps got her start in acting as a teen on the series Freaks and Geeks. She spoke with Ann Marie Baldonado about sexism in Hollywood, collaborating with Tina Fey, and the best friendship advice her mom gave her. Also, Ken Tucker reviews a new solo album from Mary Timony, and David Biacnulli reviews the series Shōgun.For sponsor-free episodes of Fresh Air — and exclusive weekly bonus episodes, too — subscribe to Fresh Air+ via Apple Podcasts or at https://plus.npr.org/freshairLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Award-winning ProPublica reporter Topher Sanders has spent the last two years investigating America's aging freight train system. He says the Federal Railroad Administration monitors "less than 1% of what's happening on the rails." Sanders talks about the toxic East Palestine, OH derailment, the prevalence of blocked railroad crossings, and why railway safety legislation is yet to be passed. Also, rock critic Ken Tucker shares three new songs.

NBC journalist Antonia Hylton spent more than a decade piecing together the history of Maryland's first segregated asylum, where Black patients were forced into manual labor. Her new book is Madness: Race and Insanity in a Jim Crow Asylum. Also, Ken Tucker reviews the new album The Interrogator from The Paranoid Style.